Portsmouth remain hopeful of bringing back last season’s loan stars – Rich Hughes
Portsmouth sporting director Rich Hughes says the club remain hopeful of bringing back at least one of last season’s loanees, but with no promises.
Hughes, speaking to BBC Radio Solent broadcaster Andrew Moon [12 July], admits Pompey will have to “see how it pans out” – particularly regarding Abu Kamara, Tino Anjorin and Alex Robertson.
The trio impressed during their time at Fratton Park in last year’s promotion campaign, and John Mousinho would be keen to have them back in his squad.
“Never say never in football,” Hughes said.
“They’re certainly avenues we’ve explored because we really enjoyed having the players last year, but their situations are different.
“Norwich will want to have a good look at Abu in pre-season, Alex was doing really well before his injury, and Chelsea will keep a few bodies around and then Tino may or may not become available. We’ll have to wait and see how it pans out as to whether we can pursue something for one, two or all three of them.”
Portsmouth fans dazzled by loan stars
Portsmouth supporters certainly got their money’s worth at Fratton Park last term, and the club’s faith in the loan market during 2023-24 in League One was also repaid.
Pompey have been strongly linked with pursuing deals for Kamara, Robertson and Anjorin – midfield man Robertson appears to be one the Blues fancy their chances with, having delivered the Australian key experience in the third tier as parent club Manchester City may recognise the progression path that can now be offered in the Championship.
In Kamara’s case, Norwich competing as a direct rival this season has seemingly extinguished much of the hope that the young winger could make a comeback to the South Coast after his superb showing last campaign.
For Anjorin, it seems a case of unfinished business after a significant injury absence, with the midfielder returning late in the run-in and speaking out about how much he adored his time at Pompey.
Mousinho remains a huge fan of the Chelsea man [Football League World, 21 June] and the club cannot be ruled out in returning with an offer.
In other Portsmouth news, the club could receive a handy windfall from hospitality sales.
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